RAF ETIQUETTE COMMITTEE ADDS SAFETY AND EDUCATION

The RAF has added Safety and Education to its Backcountry Etiquette Team (BET), launching the combined RAF Safety, Education, and Etiquette Committee, (SEE). “Etiquette, education, and safety are deeply interconnected,” RAF Director Matt Foster said, adding, “Behaviors promoted by the Etiquette Team overlap with educational efforts and directly impact safety.”

To promote safe, responsible, ethical and enjoyable recreational flying opportunities, the fortified committee will continue to develop initiatives to improve proficiency, and raise awareness of the unique challenges of recreational airstrips and their surroundings for pilots of all skill levels. The RAF will continue its cooperation with state aviation organizations for outreach and cross-promotion, and expects to broaden and formalize cooperation with other aviation and recreational industry groups.

Building on the BET’s multilateral messaging, additional relevant SEE committee resources will appear on the RAF website. The SEE committee will address topics such as how best to prepare yourself, passengers, and your aircraft prior to leaving your home field, airstrip safety briefings, and best practices for airplane camping, fire season alerts, and more.

SEE Committee messaging is not a substitute for formal flight instruction, nor sound aeronautical decision-making. Pilots must assess their own skill level, the capabilities of their aircraft, and each airstrip environment in which they intend to operate.
“We value the privilege of recreational aviation and strive to foster respect for others, the environment, and the special places we visit and work to protect. I believe the SEE Committee will strengthen our efforts to enhance member safety,” Foster added.

Submitted August 29, 2025. Cover photo by Kyle Titsworth, Katama Airfield, MA (1B2)